The Principal Things That Are Necessary For A Holy Roman Emperor ~ Scotus

The best things in life aren't things.
Paris Hilton 5:26 AM Jul 21st via UberTwitter

No structure keeps a fixed form for all time,
If it does not rest on firm foundations,
Neither can temples resplendent with light survive,
Nor the hall of kings remain solid without these.

The commonwealth asks of a gracious God,
That it stand on the true foundations of just rule.
The first supporting column shines with the brilliant gleam of truth,

And the second is properly an enduring government.

The third is to give generous rewards to merit,

And the fourth to speak sweet soothing words.

The fifth is to repress and attack evildoers with admirable zeal,

And the sixth one is strong to celebrate the good.

The seventh is to levy taxes with moderation on the people,

But the eighth controls the scales of justice.

The commonwealth endowed with these solid foundations shines forth, as the mount Zion, and remains strong with these.
Venerable Sedulius [Scotus]
De Rectoribus Christianis [On Christian Rulers]